Conferences

Pandemic, the war in Ukraine, inflation, avian flu: the disruptions have been numerous. When Trump took charge of the United States in January 2025, the upheaval intensified, with trade wars and sometimes hostile geopolitical interventions. Together, these events are disrupting supply chains and heralding a profound redefinition of the global landscape. As countries and businesses review the security of their supplies, how far will protectionist measures go? What can we expect for the future?

Artificial intelligence promises productivity gains, optimization of the agri-food chain, and progress in precision agriculture. Nevertheless, this revolution raises significant issues regarding governance and data protection in the agri-food industry, where confidentiality, digital sovereignty, and stakeholder trust are paramount. This presentation will cover the leading trends in AI usage, practical examples of applications, potential risks, and recommendations for responsible adoption within the industry.

While the pork, dairy, and poultry industries remain the backbone of Quebec agriculture and support the economies of many regions, emerging or niche industries, like goat farming and forestry, are enriching and revitalizing the sector, along with innovative business models. Deeply rooted in their local areas and motivated by different production methods, these sectors are often considered more resilient, despite facing the same challenges: market access, labour availability, and profitability. This conference showcases the agricultural diversity in Quebec and emphasizes the importance of coexisting models. It also presents adaptation strategies and regional consultation tools to promote their success.

Regenerative agriculture is gaining visibility, with companies such as McCain and Prana adopting it. The approach is presented as a solution to have a more direct impact on soil health and biodiversity restoration, as well as promoting adaptation to climate change. Yet behind this trend, definitions are multiplying: in absence of international standards and clear legal frameworks, how is it possible to distinguish a genuine shift in practises from a plain attempt at greenwashing? Supported by case studies, this conference aims to explain the concept, present its potential and limitations, and offer an overview of international trends and standardization efforts.

Travel back in time to (re)live five decades of landmark moments in the history of the Quebec agri-food industry! Between political debates, innovations, and food trends, rediscover the key events that influenced consumer food choices and the daily lives of those working in the agri-food industry. This conference is a unique opportunity to better understand our origins in order to better grasp our future and explain why the agri-food industry remains, more than ever, an essential lever for resilience, innovation, and societal impact.

Urban agriculture is becoming a driver of social, environmental, and economic transformation. Roof gardens, vertical farms, and community gardens are reinventing spaces, boosting biodiversity, and bringing citizens closer to their food. Fuelled by community involvement, changing regulations, and new business models, this movement is growing rapidly in Quebec, supporting the local economy and food self-sufficiency. This conference highlights current trends, key success factors, and how urban farming can help with the green transition and community well-being.